Ted Brightbill, 68, of Mansfield passed away at his home March 3, 2017 surrounded by his loving wife and family after a long illness.
Ted was a man of few words, but his words were golden. His gruff tone could quickly be taken over by his giving nature, never expecting something in return.
Ted lived his life in a simple manner. One of his greatest passions was farming at their family farm and he was always happy to share his tomatoes and corn with family and friends. Another great passion of Ted’s was his love for his John Deere tractors, which he shared with his son, dad and brothers.
After retiring from AK Steel in 2013, he spent his days playing with his two grandchildren whom he loved dearly.
He loved doing odd jobs around his home and helping his family, friends and neighbors however and whenever he could. He also loved having cookouts, making homemade ice cream with his family and having fish fries with his AK steel retirees.
Relaxing in his favorite chair, watching old westerns or Elvis movies was a perfect ending to a busy day.
He is survived by his loving wife Penny, daughter Amanda Keith (Ryan Lyall and his two sons Dempsey and Tristen), son John (Summer) Brightbill; two grandchildren Jersee and Hayden; sisters Kay (Jim) Ruly, of Springfield, Jocie (Dick) Jones, of Ashland; brother Larry Brightbill, of Lexington; sister-in-law Carrie Brightbill, of Ashland and many nieces and nephews and special friends Martha Miller, Dave McBride and Hoodie.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father Laura and Richard Brightbill; younger brother Hal “Doc” Brightbill; and parents-in-laws John and Betty Thornsberry
The family would like to thank Harbor Light Hospice, Nancy, Brenda, Heather and Raven, social worker Kate and pastoral care Beth for their loving care and support. They would like to also thank Interim Health Care, Amy and Briana for all their kindness and loving care. Also, a special thank-you to dear neighbors Jan Uhl and Carol Pohlable for all their kindness and food.
The Brightbill family will receive friends Tuesday, March 7, 2017 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Finefrock Chapel of the Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home (350 Marion Ave.). The family encourages friends to wear Ohio State attire on Ted’s behalf. A Celebration of His Life will be held later this summer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Richland County Humane Society may be made at the funeral home.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Ted’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence to them at http://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituary/ted-brightbill/
